How to identify White Coral Fungus

To correctly identify White Coral Fungus (Ramariopsis kunzei), check each of these features in order. Misidentification is the most common cause of mushroom poisoning, so cross-reference multiple sources.

Step-by-step identification

1. 1

   Cap

   Shape, color, surface texture, and diameter.

   Not applicable, as this fungus does not form a cap.

2. 2

   Gills

   Attachment to stem, color, and spacing.

   Not applicable, as this fungus does not have gills.

3. 3

   Stem

   Length, shape, surface, and any ring.

   A distinct stem is usually absent, with the branches arising directly from a common, often indistinct, basal area. The base may be slightly thickened and attached to the substrate by white mycelial threads.

4. 4

   Flesh

   Color, texture, and bruising reaction.

   The flesh is white, brittle, and lacks a distinctive odor or taste.

5. 5

   Fruiting body

   Overall growth pattern.

   The fruiting body is erect, highly branched, and coral-like, typically 2-10 cm tall and 2-8 cm wide. It is pure white to creamy white, often becoming yellowish with age or handling. The branches are slender, cylindrical, and often terminate in blunt or slightly pointed tips. The texture is brittle and somewhat waxy.

6. 6

   Habitat

   Where it grows and on what substrate.

   Saprobic, growing on decaying wood (often buried) or leaf litter in deciduous and coniferous forests. It can be found solitary or in scattered groups.

Key Facts

Cap surfaces

Not applicable

Growth Form

Coral-like, branched

Spore Print

White

Body color

Pure white to creamy white

Odor

Indistinct

Flesh bruises

No significant bruising reaction

Height

2-10 cm

Cap Diameter

Not applicable

Fruit body characteristics

• Gill attachment: Not applicable
• Stem shape: Not applicable (branches arise from a common base)
• Stem surface: Not applicable
• Ring: Absent
• Stem cross-section: Not applicable

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